Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension is a lung disorder in which the blood pressure in the pulmonary artery rises far above normal levels. It is usually inherited or caused by unknown reasons.

Pulmonary Hypertension Center

The specialized center is designed to evaluate, diagnose and provide a treatment plan for people with the condition that enlarges the heart due to continuous high blood pressure in the lungs. As a result, the heart loses its ability to pump efficiently.

This can lead to common symptoms including shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain, dizzy spells, fainting and swelling of the legs. The disease is challenging to diagnose as the indicators are similar to many other medical conditions.

Beaumont's Pulmonary Hypertension Center offers advanced diagnostic technology to detect the disease from its earliest stages. It is staffed with an experienced certified nurse practitioner and two board-certified physicians, lung specialist Samuel Allen, D.O. and heart specialist David Cragg, M.D., all of whom specialize in evaluating and treating pulmonary hypertension.   

Tests and procedures offered at the center include echocardiograms, pulmonary function tests, lab work, IV therapy, X-rays and heart catheterizations to check pressure in the heart and lungs.

Causes & Treatments

Reaching Out host, Jay Wiencko, sat down with Dr. Sam Allen, Medical Director of Beaumont's Pulmonary Hypertension Center. Dr. Allen talked about the causes and treatment of Pulmonary Hypertension.

Symptoms

The following are the most common symptoms for pulmonary hypertension. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

• fatigue
• difficulty in breathing (dyspnea)
• dizziness
• fainting spells (syncope)
• swelling in the ankles or legs (edema)
• bluish lips and skin (cyanosis)
• chest pain (angina)
• racing pulse
• trouble getting enough air
• palpitations, strong throbbing sensations brought on by increased heart rate

More severe symptoms indicate a more advanced disease. In advanced stages, the patient:

• is able to perform minimal activities.
• has symptoms even when resting.
• may become bedridden if the disease becomes worse.